Whether developed, developing or underdeveloped, the role of NGO remains crucial across all three categories of countries. NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations) act as the implementing arm for the initiatives and schemes that the Government proposes. Globally all the NGOs have their causes to work towards. Considering the diverse socio-economic and cultural scenario in India, the role of NGO in India becomes even more critical. The range of causes that each NGO in India works toward is from child, women, health, environment, education, and the like.
Depending upon the nature of cause and need, the Government of India permits some of the NGOs to accept foreign contribution along with national funding in the form of donations. This indicates that even the Government is supportive of the role of NGO in India. However it is seen that NGO in India has not yet reached that level of trust among the Indian citizens, more so because of the doubt on usability of the funds collected. Recently, an article in Deccan Herald, 29 November 2014 mentioned that "a considerable 82% of 45,000 NGOs with permission to receive foreign contribution are yet to submit their accounts with the Union Home Ministry as the deadline is to end in a month. According to statistics, as on 15th November, only 8,636 NGOs have submitted the details of foreign funds they received during the financial year 2013-14. It has been reported that during 2013-14, Tamil Nadu NGOs have received the highest foreign contribution at Rs. 546.64 crore for 1,344 NGOs. This was followed by Andhra Pradesh at Rs. 480.37 crore for 1,022 NGOs and Kerala at Rs. 385.crore for 951 NGOs. Karnataka ranked sixth with 594 NGOs submitting accounts for receipt of Rs 356.29 crore during 2013-14."
Even though there are many contributors and supporters who believe in the crucial role of NGO, yet incidences as mentioned above at some level deter their trust. In order to overcome such uncalled circumstance The Akshaya Patra Foundation, a mid-day meal NGO in India practices financial transparency and accountability by publishing its Annual Report every financial year. Along with publishing the developments, achievement and future plans of the organisation, this NGO in India makes available its audited financial reports for the public. Akshaya Patra provides free school lunch at more than 10,600 Government schools across 10 states of India. It provides meals to 1.4 million children every day.
Confidence and trust are the prerequisite among donors. Thus Akshaya Patra sends across donation receipt and tax exemption certificate even for NGO donation made online. It has created a platform to contribute NGO donation online as an attempt to ease up donors' charitable act. Irrespective of a donor's choice to contribute NGO donation online or offline, he will receive tax exemption certificate for any contribution made above Rs. 500.
We all know and accept the important role of NGO in Indian scenario. Let's all join together and help the NGOs not just financially but morally too!
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